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animalistic

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˌænɪˈmælɪstɪk/

KK: /ˌænɪˈmælɪstɪk/

adjective
Definition

Relating to or resembling animals, often in a wild or instinctive way.


Example

His animalistic instincts took over when he felt threatened.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that documentary about wild animals last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was fascinating to see their animalistic behaviors.
Sloth A
I agree! It really made me appreciate nature more.
Sloth B
Definitely, it’s amazing how instinct drives them.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
savage
brutal
feral
Antonyms
civilized
tame
gentle
Root Explanation

Animalistic → It is formed from "animal" (from Latin "animalis", meaning having breath or life) and "-istic" (meaning pertaining to or characteristic of). The word "animalistic" refers to characteristics or behaviors that are typical of animals, often emphasizing primal instincts or nature.

Memory Tip

Think of 'animal' which relates to living beings with breath, and '-istic' means pertaining to. This helps you remember that 'animalistic' describes traits that are characteristic of animals.

Visually Confused Words
anomalistic
annalistic
malistic
cannibalistic
antirealistic
anomalistical
vandalistic
unanimistic
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